[41deacon]

What are the chances of getting a healthy African American infant from DYFS in New Jersey? I no some of you have done this already. Please share your stories with us.

[Tammi5143]

For 41 Deacon .... unfortunately, the chances of a healthy african/american child are unlikely. Most of the children within DYFS have been born exposed to drugs, addicted to drugs, or have other types of problems. But there is always that possibility that the child (whether younger or older) could be what you consider healthy. Just ask questions when the social worker calls you. If you registered in the fost/adopt program, you will more than likely get a call from Derrick Bailey or Joy Stanton, and they are both very easy to talk to, and they will give you all the information they have. If they do not have the information, the child's social worker will.

[JENNI]

We were a little concerned about the health of the children we would be asked to care for too . I honestly had to pray before accepting our little boy. He was exposed to drugs and was to come home on a heart monitor. I was scared! But we have worked very hard and he is a little miracle! He is 1 1/2 now and has been receiving occupational and physical therapy since he was about 6 mos old. He is a little delayed in his development, but NOTHING worth being scareed over!!!
He is so amazing to me and has overcome so many obstacles. You would never know by looking at him the start in life he had. I would know your limits, but don't be "turned off" by a child with special needs. Good luck to you!